After World War II, two American industries experienced a resurgence and a golden age all their own. It was the golden age of classic cars and it was the golden age of classic neon signs. Together, they made history in Tucumcari, New Mexico. It was Route 66’s heyday, and Tucumcari, was home to so many classic neon lit roadside attractions like thwe subject of this original oil painting on masonite board, the La Cita Mexican Restaurant. There were so many neon-lit motels, hotels, roadside diners, cafes, retro neon lit gas stations and souvinir shops, or ‘trading posts. that the city was nicknamed “Little Las Vegas.” The city’s official slogan became “Tucumcari Tonight.” The city boasted over 2000 motel and hotel rooms. It was the neon sign capital of Route 66! Mother Road travelers and classic car owner were attracted to Tucumcari like moths to a flame. This painting is also available as a fine art giclee print. Each fine art print wall art is reproduced on acid-free archival paper with non-fading pigmented inks.
LA CITA MEXICAN RESTAURANT ORIGINAL PAINTING
$1 ,150.00
LA CITA MEXICAN RESTAURANT 12” X 16” oil on masonite board original painting and wall art, 2024. Inspired by La Cita’s very own iconic souvenir picture post card, which was sold to visitors and tourists alike back in the heyday of Route 66. After WWII, many a westbound motorist had their first taste of authentic Mexican food at La Cita Mexican Restaurant in Tucumcari, New Mexico. How could they resist? Even in a town full of historic Route 66 neon lit motels, restaurants, roadside cafes and gas stations, many with their own unique, iconic, one-of-a-kind architecture, like The Blue Swallow Motel, Tee Pee Curios (the name says it all) and the Palomino Motel: La Cita still stood out! What other restaurant has a glowing neon-lit sombrero shaped entrance. It was unique, even for Route 66. And what was the food like behind those turquoise green stucco walls? Authentic tacos, tamales, scrambled chorizo and French toast for breakfast, the New Mexico Philly Cheese Steak. Red hatch chiles. Green Hatch chilies? Just like during the glory days of Route 66, folks are still coming back for more at La Casita in Tucumcari. This fine art painting is ready to frame and hang on any wall.
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